Triumph Enters the Dirt Game – And They’ve Done Their Homework

Raymond Heron -

In a world where motorcycle manufacturers are splitting hairs to find a point of difference, and “bad bikes” are harder to come by than ever, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choice. So how do you decide what side to pick, which badge to back, or what colour to represent?

Well, Triumph has thrown its helmet into the ring with the TF range, and they’ve made quite a splash. Now available in New Zealand, the British brand offers a full suite of off-road options:

  • TF 250-X and TF 450-RC (motocross)
  • TF 250-E and TF 450-E (enduro)
  • The just-announced TF 250-C (cross-country), with a 450-C on the way.

I’ve been lucky enough to ride most of them — and to talk to many riders who’ve taken them for a spin. What’s been most surprising is how consistently positive the feedback has been. It’s rare to hear anyone walk away with a bad word to say.


First Impressions: Smiles and Surprises

I’ve spent plenty of time at Berm Buster, helping riders get kitted up and sending them out on the demo loop. It’s a short ride, but long enough to form an opinion — and the most common reaction?

“Wow, that’s surprisingly good!”

I always ask riders whether they typically prefer a 250 or a 450. Most identify with one or the other, but I’ll usually suggest trying both — and that’s when things get interesting.

One time, I accidentally sent a self-proclaimed “450 guy” out on the 250. He came back absolutely raving about it. He was shocked by how peppy and capable it was — only to find out after the fact that he’d been on the smaller bike the whole time. Safe to say, a little seed of doubt was planted that day.


250 vs 450: More Than Just Numbers

There’s a surprising amount of resistance from some trail and enduro riders when it comes to 250s. But honestly, some of the best days I’ve had on a bike have been on a 250. Sure, 450s are powerful — but they’re also heavier, more demanding, and can be overkill unless you’re really pushing hard.

That said, when I finally got some proper trail time on the TF 450-E with my mate Mat, I came away seriously impressed. It’s hard to quantify, but I felt more confident, more in control, and faster than I usually do — especially through the back of the KTM loop at Berm Buster. The bike just gives you that feeling of “I’ve got this.”

And yes, I hate describing bikes as “confidence-inspiring,” but that’s exactly what the 450-E is. It’s a great bike for intermediates, but in the hands of an experienced rider, it really comes alive.

Midway through the ride, I swapped with Mat, who was on the TF 250-E. The contrast was immediate. Both bikes feel manageable and nimble — the 450 is only 4 kg heavier — but the 250 is just lively. It’s energetic, playful, and begs you to push harder. The 450, by comparison, feels like it’s holding something in reserve — like it’s warning you that if you open it up, it will let loose.


Traction for Days

It’s also worth mentioning the Michelin Enduro tyres that come standard on these bikes. They’re honestly some of the best I’ve used on the dirt. No matter where we stopped — whether it was slick clay, loose gravel, or steep, rutted singletrack — I had traction to spare.

We accidentally found ourselves dropping into a Grade 4 trail heading out toward the beach at KTM, tight and hilly with minimal line choice. I had all the grip I needed — even if I could’ve done with a bit more skill…


An Overcrowded Segment? Maybe. But That’s Not a Bad Thing.

So here we are, in a segment bursting with strong contenders: Beta, KTM, GasGas, Husqvarna, Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Rieju, Sherco — and now Triumph (and Ducati right around the corner). It’s a rainbow of options out there.

But that’s a good thing.

If you’re in the market for a new dirt bike, you’re genuinely spoilt for choice. My advice? Ride as many as you can before you make a call. Every rider’s preferences are different, and with bikes this good, it really does come down to personal feel.

But I will say this: I’ve been genuinely impressed with Triumph’s TF range. The bikes perform, they’re well put together, and they’re proving themselves to a wide range of riders. I’d happily have one in my garage full-time.


What’s Next from Triumph?

Will Triumph release a 2-stroke? So far, there’s been no word from the factory. Realistically, we’ll likely see a few more iterations of the 250 and 450 before anything new lands — and if I had to bet, I’d say we’ll see a 350 four-stroke before a smoker.

Either way, Triumph has made a strong first impression in the dirt world — and the rest of the industry should be paying attention.

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